What is Pilates?

Pilates is a form of strengthening exercises that focus on core stability, breathing and alignment. Pilates incorporates the latest techniques in both mental and physical conditioning. Our Ancaster Pilates studio offers matwork, reformer, barre, bosu and circuit training classes that teach you the principles of Pilates and continually challenge you.

Benefits of Pilates

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, want to get in shape, lose weight, or are looking for a fun way to work out, Pilates offers a number of benefits:

Increase strength and endurance

Improve posture and overall health

Prevent injuries and enhance athletic performance

Alleviate stress and back pain

Improve balance and coordination

Enhance mind-body awareness

Although you should always consult your physician before starting any fitness routine, a Pilates workout is gentle & controlled with no sudden jerking actions. An instructor will be able to modify the exercises to accommodate your limitations, continually challenge you within your range and monitor your improvements.

What is STOTT PILATES®?

STOTT PILATES® is an anatomically based approach to Joseph Pilates’ original exercise method. STOTT PILATES® incorporates modern exercise principles including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and performance enhancement. STOTT PILATES® are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and re-balance muscles around the joints.

Common benefits from STOTT PILATES® include:

Increased flexibility, mobility, balance and body awareness

Decrease in back pain and general body pain

STOTT PILATES® versus other exercise programs

STOTT PILATES® a musculo-skeletal conditioning program and when used in combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise (walking, running, aerobics etc.), it’s the only exercise program you need. Unlike other resistance or strength training, Pilates

Is three dimensional, which means that Pilates exercises are performed in all movement planes

Uses spring resistance which closely resembles muscular contraction

Places emphasis on re-balancing muscles around the joints

Corrects over training and muscle imbalances that lead to injury

Balances strength with flexibility (for efficient movement)

The average active person, doing 2-3 classes per week usually sees results within 10-12 classes.

Pre-natal and Postnatal Pilates

Is it safe to do Pilates during pregnancy? Information on pregnancy and exercise can sometimes be confusing. During a normal healthy pregnancy, moderate exercise is safe for the fetus. Exercise can prevent varicose veins, hemorrhoids, low back pain and boost self esteem.

Our stability chair facilitates many exercises in the upright position, which is recommended during the second trimester.